? Message us on The Cisco MS120-48LP-HW Network Switch is a reliable, enterprise-class networking solution designed for businesses that require secure connectivity, centralized management, and Power over Ethernet (PoE) capabilities. As part of the Cisco Meraki MS120 series, this 48-port Gigabit switch combines essential Layer 2 switching features with cloud-based administration, making it suitable for offices, retail environments, educational institutions, and growing business networks. Its combination of high port density, PoE+ support, and remote monitoring helps organizations simplify network operations while maintaining consistent performance across connected devices.
Overview of the Cisco MS120-48LP-HW Network Switch
The Cisco MS120-48LP-HW Network Switch is a cloud-managed Layer 2 access switch developed for organizations looking to simplify network deployment and maintenance. Equipped with 48 Gigabit Ethernet ports and four 1G SFP uplink interfaces, it supports connectivity for desktop computers, wireless access points, IP phones, security cameras, and other Ethernet-enabled equipment. The switch provides a 370W PoE budget, allowing compatible devices to receive electrical power and network connectivity through the same Ethernet cable. This reduces the need for separate power adapters and simplifies structured cabling installations.
One of the defining characteristics of the Cisco MS120-48LP-HW Network Switch is its integration with the Cisco Meraki Dashboard. Unlike conventional switches that rely primarily on local configuration interfaces, this model uses centralized cloud management for configuration, monitoring, troubleshooting, and firmware updates. Network administrators can manage multiple switches across different locations from a single interface. The switch also supports VLAN segmentation, Quality of Service (QoS), access controls, and network visibility tools. An active Meraki license is required for normal cloud-managed operation, making licensing an important consideration when purchasing this model.
Physical Design, Dimensions, and Build Quality
The Cisco MS120-48LP-HW Network Switch features a durable metal chassis designed for professional networking environments. Its 1U rack-mountable construction measures approximately 4.4 × 44 × 34 cm (H × W × D) and weighs 5.7 kg. The front panel provides clearly arranged Ethernet interfaces, status indicators, and uplink connections for convenient cable management. Its internal power supply eliminates the need for an external power adapter, while integrated cooling supports continuous operation. The robust construction makes this switch appropriate for network cabinets, equipment rooms, and structured IT installations.
Applications of the Cisco MS120-48LP-HW Network Switch
The Cisco MS120-48LP-HW Network Switch is suitable for businesses operating multiple network-connected devices. In corporate offices, it connects workstations, printers, IP telephones, and wireless access points. In hotels and retail stores, its PoE functionality can power surveillance cameras and communication equipment. Educational institutions can use it to establish separate VLANs for administrative staff, classrooms, and guest networks. Its cloud-based management is particularly useful for organizations with multiple branches because administrators can monitor and troubleshoot network infrastructure remotely.
Ethernet Ports, SFP Uplinks, and PoE Capabilities
The Cisco MS120-48LP-HW Network Switch includes 48 RJ45 Ethernet ports supporting 10/100/1000 Mbps connections. These ports support IEEE 802.3af PoE and 802.3at PoE+, providing power to compatible devices within the switch’s shared 370W power budget.
Four dedicated 1Gbps SFP interfaces enable fiber-optic uplinks to other switches or network distribution equipment. A separate RJ45 management interface is also provided. With a switching capacity of 104Gbps, the device can support simultaneous Gigabit connections across its network interfaces. However, its SFP ports are limited to 1Gbps and do not support 10Gbps SFP+ connectivity.
Cloud Management and Network Security Features
A major advantage of the Cisco MS120-48LP-HW Network Switch is its centralized Meraki Dashboard integration. Administrators can configure VLANs, inspect connected clients, monitor port utilization, and identify network problems without visiting the installation site.
Security and management capabilities include 802.1X authentication, DHCP snooping, IPv4/IPv6 access control lists, and 802.1Q VLAN tagging. QoS functionality helps prioritize latency-sensitive traffic such as VoIP communications. Remote packet capture, SNMP integration, and event monitoring provide additional troubleshooting capabilities.
These features make the switch more suitable for managed business networks than basic unmanaged Ethernet switches.
Planning the 370W PoE Budget Before Installation
When deploying the Cisco MS120-48LP-HW Network Switch, administrators should calculate the total power requirements of connected PoE devices rather than assuming all 48 ports can simultaneously deliver maximum PoE+ power.
For example, connecting 20 IP cameras requiring 10W each and 10 wireless access points requiring 15W each produces a combined requirement of 350W. Although this fits within the 370W budget, it leaves limited capacity for additional devices or power fluctuations.
For networks with more demanding wireless access points or extensive surveillance installations, the MS120-48FP-HW with its 740W PoE budget may be more appropriate.
Cisco MS120-48LP-HW vs Similar Cisco Meraki Switches
The following comparison highlights differences between the Cisco MS120-48LP-HW Network Switch and related Meraki models.
| Feature | MS120-48LP-HW | MS120-48FP-HW | MS120-24P-HW | MS125-48LP-HW |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ethernet ports | 48 × 1G | 48 × 1G | 24 × 1G | 48 × 1G |
| Uplink ports | 4 × 1G SFP | 4 × 1G SFP | 4 × 1G SFP | 4 × 10G SFP+ |
| PoE+ | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| PoE budget | 370W | 740W | 370W | 370W |
| Switching capacity | 104Gbps | 104Gbps | 56Gbps | 176Gbps |
| Management | Meraki Cloud | Meraki Cloud | Meraki Cloud | Meraki Cloud |
| Rack mounting | 1U | 1U | 1U | 1U |
| Best suited for | Standard 48-port PoE networks | High-power PoE installations | Smaller networks | Networks requiring 10G uplinks |
The MS120-48LP-HW provides a balanced combination of port density and power capacity. Businesses requiring greater PoE power should consider the MS120-48FP, while networks requiring faster uplinks may benefit from the MS125 series.
Cisco MS120-48LP-HW Network Switch Technical Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Cisco Meraki |
| Product model | MS120-48LP-HW |
| Product category | Cloud-managed network switch |
| Switching layer | Layer 2 |
| Ethernet interfaces | 48 × RJ45 |
| Ethernet speeds | 10/100/1000 Mbps |
| SFP uplinks | 4 × 1Gbps |
| Dedicated management port | 1 × RJ45 |
| Switching capacity | 104Gbps |
| PoE standards | IEEE 802.3af / 802.3at |
| Total PoE budget | 370W |
| VLAN support | IEEE 802.1Q |
| Authentication | IEEE 802.1X |
| Security | ACLs, DHCP snooping |
| QoS | Supported |
| Management platform | Cisco Meraki Dashboard |
| Firmware updates | Cloud-managed |
| Power supply | Fixed internal |
| Power consumption | 37W idle / 477W maximum |
| Dimensions (H × W × D) | 4.4 × 44 × 34 cm |
| Weight | 5.7 kg |
| Rack installation | 1U |
| Operating temperature | 0°C to 45°C |
| Operating humidity | 5%–95% |
| License requirement | Active Meraki licensing |
| Hardware stacking | Not supported |
| Virtual stacking | Supported |
Technical specifications are based on Cisco Meraki’s published MS120 documentation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Is the Cisco MS120-48LP-HW Network Switch managed or unmanaged?
It is a cloud-managed Layer 2 switch configured and monitored through the Cisco Meraki Dashboard.
2. Can the Cisco MS120-48LP-HW work without a Meraki license?
An active Meraki license is required for supported operation. It should not be purchased as a conventional unmanaged switch.
3. Does the MS120-48LP-HW support 10Gbps connections?
No. Its Ethernet and SFP interfaces operate at a maximum speed of 1Gbps.
4. Can all 48 ports provide PoE simultaneously?
Yes, subject to the total 370W PoE budget and the power requirements of connected devices.
5. Is the Cisco MS120-48LP-HW suitable for CCTV systems?
Yes. It can connect and power compatible PoE IP cameras, provided their combined power consumption stays within the available budget.
6. Can this switch be used with non-Cisco equipment?
Yes. It supports standard Ethernet connections and interoperable PoE devices from different manufacturers.
7. Does the Cisco MS120-48LP-HW support VLAN configuration?
Yes. It supports IEEE 802.1Q VLAN tagging for separating network traffic into logical segments.
8. Can the MS120-48LP-HW be installed in a server rack?
Yes. Its 1U chassis is designed for installation in standard 19-inch networking racks.
9. Does the switch support Layer 3 routing?
It is primarily a Layer 2 access switch and does not provide full enterprise Layer 3 routing capabilities.
10. Can the switch be managed remotely?
Yes. Administrators can monitor and configure it remotely using the Meraki Dashboard when the necessary connectivity and licensing are available.
11. Does the switch support fiber-optic connections?
Yes. Its four 1G SFP uplink interfaces support compatible fiber-optic transceivers.
12. What should I check when purchasing a used MS120-48LP-HW?
Verify the hardware condition, PoE functionality, serial number, licensing requirements, and whether the device has been unclaimed from the previous owner’s Meraki organization.
Buy Cisco MS120-48LP-HW Network Switch from ITMan in Dubai
The Cisco MS120-48LP-HW Network Switch offers a practical combination of 48 Gigabit Ethernet ports, 370W PoE+ capacity, four SFP uplinks, and centralized cloud management. Its reliable hardware and comprehensive network administration features make it suitable for businesses requiring structured and scalable Ethernet connectivity.
At ITMan, we supply networking equipment for businesses and IT professionals across Dubai and the UAE. Contact our team to confirm the availability, condition, licensing status, and price of the Cisco MS120-48LP-HW Network Switch before purchasing.
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